Single Idea 7921

[catalogued under 1. Philosophy / F. Analytic Philosophy / 5. Linguistic Analysis]

Full Idea

Up to a point, the reliance upon a close examination of the actual use of words is the best, and indeed the only sure, way in philosophy.

Gist of Idea

Close examination of actual word usage is the only sure way in philosophy

Source

Peter F. Strawson (Individuals:Essay in Descript Metaphysics [1959], Intro)

Book Reference

Strawson,Peter F.: 'Individuals: Essay in Descriptive Metaphysics' [Methuen University 1974], p.9


A Reaction

Probably the last bold assertion of ordinary language philosophy, though Strawson goes on the defend his 'deeper' version of the activity, which he says is 'descriptive metaphysics', rather than mere 'analysis'. Mere verbal analysis now looks hopeless.